RFID-PIN Access Control System: Cost-Effective Security for Smart Home Applications

Access control is an important feature needed for the security of emerging smart and connected applications such as smart homes. This paper investigates cost effective construction of a personalized access control system from off the shelf components. The system uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags combined with passwords (PINs) for two factor authentication credentials, and it follows the discretionary access control (DAC) model. The system deploys cryptographic protocols for secure communications. In addition, the system logs access requests, authorizations, and denials. Therefore, by investing reasonable cost on off shelf components the proposed system is constructed offering flexible personal access rights assignments, diligent monitoring, and sustained accountability.